Whiskas Cat Food Tin with Illustrations of Jan, Jans, and the Children (2001)

Whiskas Cat Food Tin with Illustrations of Jan, Jans, and the Children (2001)

• Manufacturer: VNU Tijdschriften B.V.
• Date of Manufacture: 2001

Product Description:
This metal storage tin for cat kibble was designed as both a collectible and a functional storage container. It was released in 2001 in collaboration with Jan, Jans, en de kinderen, the popular comic strip by Jan Kruis. Produced by VNU Tijdschriften B.V., it served as promotional material for the Whiskas brand, renowned for its cat food products.

Design and Execution:
The tin has a round shape, with a height of 21.5 cm and a diameter of 12.5 cm. The design features purple and lilac shades, representing Whiskas' recognizable color palette. The back of the tin has a rolled seam. The lid fits loosely, allowing easy access to the contents without the need for a screw or click system. The size and shape make it ideal for storing cat kibble or other dry pet food.

Illustrations and Theme:
The tin is adorned with vibrant illustrations of the Tromp family and their pets, as depicted in the Jan, Jans en de kinderen comic strip. The characters featured on the tin offer a recognizable reflection of Dutch family life, including:

• Jan (father), Jans (mother), Karlijn (eldest daughter), and Catootje (youngest daughter)

• Jeroentje, Catootje's playmate

• Pets such as De Rode Kater (The Red Cat), Lotje (the dachshund), Loedertje (the Siamese cat), and Anne-Marie, Jeroentje's dog

The illustrations are directly taken from the original comic, making this tin a nostalgic and visually appealing item for fans of Dutch comic culture.

Condition:
The tin is in good vintage condition. There are minor signs of wear and light usage that reflect its age, but these do not detract from its appearance or functionality.

Dimensions:

• Height: 21.5 cm
• Diameter: 12.5 cm

Context:
Whiskas is a globally recognized cat food brand and part of Mars Incorporated. The name is derived from the English word whiskers, referring to cat whiskers. The slogan "Als het aan de kat lag, kocht ze Whiskas" (If it were up to the cat, it would buy Whiskas) has given the brand strong recognition in the Netherlands for many years.

Jan, Jans en de kinderen first appeared in 1970 in the Dutch women's magazine Libelle and has since become a staple of Dutch comic culture. The combination of domestic themes and subtle humor has made the comic beloved by a wide audience. (In English the comic has been translated as Jack, Jacky and the Juniors.)

Summary:
This tin is more than just a practical storage container; it is an illustrative timepiece that brings together two iconic Dutch brands – Whiskas and Jan, Jans en de kinderen. With its design, thematic elements, and functional shape, it is a valuable item for collectors of nostalgic advertising materials or comic-related memorabilia.

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